at the Mini-Marathon to Commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Founding of ASEAN and 20th Anniversary of Lao PDR’s Accession to ASEAN

12 August 2017, Patuxay, Vientiane, Lao PDR

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-H.E. Thongloun SISOULITH, Prime Minister of the Lao PDR [TBC]

-Excellency Somsavat LENGSAVAD, Former Deputy Prime Minister,

-Excellencies Ministers, Vice Ministers,

-Ambassadors, Representatives of International Organisations to the Lao PDR,

-Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

A very good morning to you all,

It gives mea great pleasure to welcome you all to the Mini-marathon, which is one of our activities to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Founding of ASEAN and 20th Anniversary of Lao PDR’s Accession to ASEAN.

ASEAN Day is a meaningful day for the peoples of ASEAN Member States and this year’s celebration is very special as it marks a historic milestone of the Golden Jubilee of ASEAN. While ASEAN peoples are celebrating the achievements of ASEAN over the last 50 years, ASEAN looks forward with excitement to the next 50 years and beyond of working hand in hand among Member States and with all external partners for peace, stability and prosperity of the ASEAN Community and the world at large.

For the Lao PDR, this year marks its 20 years in ASEAN. Throughout the past two decades of being part of the ASEAN family, the Lao PDR has actively carried out its obligations, made important contributions to ASEAN and has benefited from the ASEAN Community building process and partnership with all ASEAN external partners. We look forward to continuing toplay our part in contributing to further strengthening the ASEAN Community and its external relations.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to our leaders, all members of the Diplomatic Corps in Vientiane and all distinguished guests for participating in this important event with us today. I also appreciate your participation in previous celebratory activities to commemorate these two important occasions over the past days and I look forward to welcoming you at the Gala Dinner this evening.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen!

Let’s walk together to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Founding of ASEAN and 20th Anniversary of Lao PDR’s Accession to ASEAN and also forour good health, and for our friendship and partnership.